What do exocrine glands secrete?

Exocrine glands are specialized glands that secrete their products through ducts onto epithelial surfaces, as opposed to directly into the bloodstream like endocrine glands. This mechanism allows for localized delivery of substances such as saliva, sweat, and digestive enzymes to specific sites where they perform their functions. For example, salivary glands secrete saliva into the mouth, while sweat glands release sweat onto the skin’s surface to aid in thermoregulation.

The other options do not accurately describe the function of exocrine glands. They do not secrete substances directly into the bloodstream or produce only hormones or enzymes; instead, they may secrete a variety of substances, including mucus, sweat, saliva, and digestive juices, depending on their specific type and function.